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1902 
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A Southern Girl in War Times, 



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A POEM. 



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PREFACE. 

With some degree of timidity this Httle poem is 
sent forth into the world of literature. The author 
has endeavored to make a picture true to life in 
the characters represented during the stiring 
times of the war between the States, and also in 
love affairs and battles, for truth and right. The 
object has been to please and entertain more 
than to instruct. While there is no claim made 
to great excellency of literary art or poetic 
genius in this production, perhaps the reader 
will find some pleasing pictures that may awaken 
pleasant memories and touch a responsive cord 
of the soul. Trusting therefore, that it may find 
appreciative readers, it is launched forth upon its 
mission. 

'Tis well, if some sweet song we sing, 
May to the heart a blessing bring. 

So by this poem should you gain 

Some pleasure, 'tis not sung in vain. 

And if there's one that feels or sees 

Within its depths some power to please, 

Should not its humble presence find 
Within the heart a welcome kind ? 



But if to you its faults may glare, 
While beauties iu it seem more rare, 

Then grant this one word to the wise, 
In charity please criticise. 

Olin, N. C. Rkv. p. L. TkrreIvI.. 



DEDICATION. 

To my dear wife, who has been faithful and 
true in all our trials in life, and to my devoted 
children, this poem is affectionately dedicated. 

Thk Author. 



UNA GRAME, A SOUTHERN GIRL IN 
WAR TIMES. 

CHAPTER I. 

Come holy muse and tune my lyre 

My strongest thoughts do thou inspire, 

Breathe on my passion, fan the flame, 

Let fancy reach her highest aim, 

And warm my heart ; my heart inspire, 

And keep alive poetic fire. 

O may the flame burn bright and strong, 

That I may sing a lovely song, 

Of native land, and bush and bower, 

Of hill and brook, and field and flower, 

Of handsome maids, with hearts so true, 

That many lovers 'round them drew. 

If there's a land that I love most, 

A land of which I dare to boast. 

It is the place where first the light 

Shone on my happy childhood bright. 

Amid the mountains and the hills, 

The valleys, brooks, and running rills, 

Of that dear land, ray native home. 

The land I love to call my own. 

'Twas there in days, now passed and gone, 



2 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Once lived the brave ones of our song. 
And there, among those lovely hills, 
Where sang by night the whip-poor-will. 
Fond memory often loves to bring 
Afresh, the scenes of which we sing — 
'Twas there one morning, bright and fair, 
A maiden walked ; walked out to share 
The charms of nature's lovely sights 
And feast upon her pure delights. 
For on that lovely spring like morn. 
The flowers came blushing to adorn 
The hill and plain ; and make them seem 
As fair as one could think or dream. 
For 'tis when flow^ers pure and bright 
Are kissed with rays of morning light, 
They send abroad their rich perfume. 
And in their sweetest beauty bloom. 
Thus while all nature seemed so fair, 
And odors sweet perfumed the air. 
And while in notes clear, shrill and strong. 
Spring birds were heard to sing their song 
This maiden walked among some trees, 
That swayed before the morning breeze, 
Or bowed as if to catch the tide, 
For they grew by the river side. 
And on its banks this lovely maid 
In childhood days had often played. 
The little path which now she took. 



IN WAR TIMES. 

Led to a quiet shady uook, 
And when she reached that sacred place, 
She stopped and turned her lovely face, 
As if to hear the robin's song; 
She stood and listened e'er so long. 
A brow more fair, a face more sweet, 
You seldom will if ever meet. 
Her eyes were dark, their lustre bright, 
x\nd her complexion fair and white. 
Her rosy cheeks looked fresh and fair 
Beneath her raven locks of hair. 
Her graceful form, so neat, so trim, 
Perfect, complete was every limb. 
And as she stood that morning there, 
While the breezes waved her hair. 
And sunbeams through the tree-tops flew, 
And kissed her lips of rosy hue, 
Then danced in dew drops at her feet, 
The picture seemed to be complete. 
But see ! that fair one's kneeling there, 
And now she lifts her voice in prayer; 
Her hands are clasped, upturned her eye, 
"My Father, hear, oh ! hear my cry. 
Accept my thanks for blessings past, 
And fill my heart with joys that last; 
I land and magnify thy name, 
Because th}' blessings now remain 
Within my heart ; and peace abides, 



4 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

And in thy love my heart confides. 
Now, Father^ let my prayer arise, 
lyike the blest morning sacrifice. 
Oh ! send thy blessings down on all, 
For whom in duty I should call. 
Oh ! let thy peace come from above, 
And rest on those I dearly 4ove. ' ' 
'Twas thus in fervent strains she plead 
Until her earnest prayer was said. 
Then when she brought it to a close, 
And from her bended knees arose, 
She stood, while morning zephyrs fanned 
Her lovely cheeks, and with her hand 
She brushed her brow, threw back a curl. 
And listened to the w^ater whirl. 
But hark ! a .sound has caught her ear, 
She hears a footstep coming near, 
She turned about and looked to see, 
As well she might, whom it could be, 
But when the object met her eyes, 
She saw at once and recognized 
A youth, whom she had often met, 
And one whom she would ne'er forget. 
His manly form from head to feet, 
And handsome features so complete. 
Would all impress you with the truth 
That he must be a noble youth. 
His eyes were of the deepest blue, 



IN WAR TIMES. 

And their expression frank and true. 

Complexion ruddy, flush and fair, 

His head was dressed with light brown hair. 

His courage known, was to admire, 

So strong it would your own inspire. 

Now when he met this maiden fair, 

In all her beauty, rich and rare, 

With graceful bow, and self command 

Quick stepped he forth and clasped her hand. 

While blushes mantled her fair cheek. 

She bowed her head, and thus did speak : 

"In this my morning walk 'tis true, 

I had not thought to meet with you." 

"O well," the gallant youth replied, 

"My Una, dear, I'll be your guide, 

Where'er you wish this morn to roam, 

In forest, field, or to your home. 

So do not falter, do not fear, 

I promise now, I promise here, 

As we stand on this river brink, 

Where wild deer often come to drink, 

To be a friend, and more to thee 

For thou art all the world to me. 

But, Una, look ! just here in view 

I see your father's old canoe. 

So let us get in it and ride — 

Ride down this river's rapid tide.'' 

'' 'Tis true," said she, ''and we can go, 



G UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Float dowu this stream — my home's below," 

And as they viewed the lovely stream 

Whose waves flashed in the morning beam 

They stepped into the Indian boat, 

A.nd down the stream those two did float 

As happy on that lovely morn 

As any two that e'er were born. 

They talked of love and sung its song, 

And vows were given true and strong. 

We scarce know how and yet 'twas done, 

Two hearts were given, two hearts were won. 

But now they reach her father's gate. 

And now they've landed there and wait. 

They wait, and of love's passion tell, 

Before they say the sad farewell. 

For Malcom Gray must take his leave, 

However he may deeply grieve, 

The hour has come when he must part 

With her who truly claims his heart. 

And he should strengthen every nerve, 

For he mu.st now his country serve, 

Emotion strong, his heart did swell. 

And 'ere he said the last farewell. 

Her little hand in his he took. 

Then cast on her one loving look. 

Said he, ''My Una, Una Grame, 

How sweet, how charming is your name, 

I trust that you will e'er be true, 



IN WAR TliMES. 

Discard not gray for Yankee blue." 

''Fear not ! Fear not." the girl replied, 

"I'm numbered with the true and tried, 

And may the richest blessings rest, 

On him who does my heart possess." 

His heart now^ filled with perfect bliss, 

He pressed upon her brow a kiss, 

Then turned about and walked away 

In his full uniform of gray. 

While Una lingered at the gate, 

And mused thus in her heart, "I'll wait — 

I trust that in Confederate gray, 

He will return some happy day; 

And when this cruel war is o'er, 

I hope we'll meet to part no more 

Till Jtsus calls us from on high, 

To dwell with him above the sky. 

For even now we're joined by fate. 

And nought but death can separate." 



UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 



CHAPTER II. 

1 The moments fly, the days pass by, 

The seasons come and go, 
The sun shines bright, then comes a night, 
When bitter tears shall flow. 

2 But soon we'll be across time's sea, 

O ! may we reach that shore 
Where sorrows cease and where there's peace, 
Then we shall weep no more. 

'Tis evening now, the daylight fades, 

The tall oaks cast their lengthening shades 

Across the meadows far and wide 

To hill-tops on the other side. 

The golden sunbeams linger still 

Then sink beneath the western hill. 

The workman down his tool has flung, 

The birds their dail}' songs have sung, 

And now they seek their home, their nest, 

Where they in quietude may rest. 

And Una Grame, her father's pride, 

Now sits in beauty by his side 

And sings till charming music floats, 

Upon the breeze in sweetest notes. 

Now wave on wave is carried on 



IN WAR TIMES. 9 

The evening air that lovely song. 
That merry voice that sings so clear, 
Her father oft delights to hear. 
The mother too, so kind, so mild, 
Is much delighted with their child, 
For Una is the only heir, 
Known to this noble, happy pair. 
But now her evening song is sung. 
And to her mother she has flung 
A good-night kiss, and then away 
To dream land 'til the break of day. 
Then, when the beams of morning light 
Have driven back the gloom of night. 
The king of day in grandeur climbs 
The eastern hills, while beauty shines 

In everv leaf, and bush, and bower. 

In sparkling dew drop on the flower; 

And birds in plumage rich and fair 

Send forth a song on morning air, 

Which cheers the heart and and makes one gay, 

And adds to pleasures of the day. 

Then Una Grame. refreshed and strong, 

Sung in her heart a svv^eeter song. 

And felt that she with willing hands. 

Was ready for the day's demands, 

To work, or walk, or plaj^ or sing, 

Or do what 'ere may pleasure bring. 

'Twas thus on time's most rapid wing 



10 UNA (IRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Sped days and weeks of which we sing, 

While Una found in nature kind 

Enough to occupy her mind. 

Sometimes she walked by running rills, 

Sometimes she climbed the highest hills, 

Delighted with the birds that fly 

Or rainbows bright, that span the sky. 

Or clouds that float, or streams that flow. 

Or gardens wdiere sweet flowers grow; 

Sometimes she wandered all alone 

O'er field and meadow^ far from home 

And watched the workmen on the farm^ 

Who labored hard, with brawney arm, 

To lay in store the rich supplies 

For winter davs. when storms arise. 

To fill the garners for that day 

When grass and leaf, and flowers decay. 

Sometimes her faithful dog would go, 

(Her faithful dog, she called Fido^) 

With her to walk, and by her side, 

He'd trot in all his dog-like pride. 

'Twas thus in change of work and ways 

That made for Una happy days; 

For, like a bee that in one hour 

It tastes the sweets of many a flower, 

By change we break monotony 

And feast upon variety. 

Thus days and weeks and months passed by 



IN WAR TIME8. 11 

And winter winds were drawing nigh; 
But, while the fair bright summer days 
And flowers, on which one loves to gaze, 
Were passing by ne'r to return, 
Fair Una often sought to learn 
The ways of Him, who dwells above, 
Until her heart was filled with love. 
Then, on her faith, would prayers ascend 
That blessings might her life attend 
And blessings rich, and blessings rare, 
That Malcome might forever share. 
'Twas thus she often thought to pray; 
And, sometimes, at the close of day. 
When evening twilight gathered round 
And all was silent — not a sound 
To break the stillness of the eve 
Except the gentle zephyr breeze, 
That memory — faithful, true and kind. 
Would bring afresh to Una's mind 
The gone- by days — the days of yore. 
Which she would think of o'er and o'er. 
She sometimes thought of father's gate. 
And how she promised there to wait 
For Malcom, till he should return 
With honor, which she knew he'd earn, 
For he was true, and brave as true, 
(And patriotic, through and through.) 
She thought of how he walked away 



12 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

That morning, in liis suit of gray, 

And back to her a kiss he threw, 

A token that he'd e'er be true. 

And of that kiss (that kiss he flung) 

She often thought, and dreamed and sung. 

'Tis thus that memory often brings, 

As fresh as blooming flowers of spring, 

Again the joy of some bright day 

That long ago had passed away. 

'Tis like some pleasant, lovel}^ song 

Whose strains of music we'd prolong. 

Or, like the rose in richest bloom 

That scents the air with sweet perfume; 

Or, as the echoes of a sound, 

That die away and then rebound. 

So memory soothes and cheers the soul, 

And seems to check time's wheels that roll, 

B^'' bringing back the days long gone 

And singing of them some sweet song. 

Such days to Una often came, 

The halcyon days, that fanned the flame, 

The flame of love, which she possessed, 

And ever burned within her breast 

And while that flame was burning bright, 

She often would with pleasure write 

To Malcom Gray, and often went 

vSome lovely message, which she sent; 

And back again a message came, 



IN WAR TIMES. 13 

From Malcom Gray to Una Grame. 

And then sometimes har heart would yearn 

That soon her lover might return 

And claim her for his loving bride 

(While she might stand — stand by his side) 

And be that day, that happy day, 

The lovely bride of Malcom Gray. 

'Twas thus old time on moving wing 

Bore off the days of which we sing. 

Until the summer months were gone, 

And poets sang an autumn song, 

Of happy days, and lovely scenes, 

When forest leaf has changed from green 

To what is called a golden hue 

That sparkles in the morning dew. 

When Indian summer's balmy breeze 

Blows soft among the forest trees, 

And when the leaves have changed to brown, 

And soon come rustling to the ground; 

When hazy clouds are floating high 

And sometimes hide the bright blue sky, 

And, as the autumn day declines. 

The sun through smoke but dimly shines, 

And when the mountain top it nears, 

In crimson red it then appears. 

But soon the autumn will be gone. 

The winter winds are coming on. 

The blooming flowers soon will fade, 



14 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Ere long they will have all decayed. 

But while the months thus hurried by, 

The star of hope had risen high, 

And threw, in Una's heart, a beam 

Of cheering light and made it seem, 

As though she might forever sing, 

As happy as a bird of spring. 

Yet, still there was one burden pressed 

Upon her heart that gave unrest, 

And to a throne of grace she'd gone. 

And often there had lingered long, 

And pressed her suit, and plead with tears 

To Him, who surely loves and hears 

His weakest children when they cry, 

And knows and counts their every sigh; 

That Jesus would in mercy save 

Her lover from a far-oflF grave, 

And that he soon might sweetly taste 

The riches of redeeming grace. 

For like the rich young man that came 

To Jesus Christ (of greatest fame) 

He lacked one thing, the better part, 

Full consecration of his heart. 

And for this thing had Una ple?d, 

And man> a bitter tear had shed. 

But oft her hopes were lifted high, 

Faith sweetly whispered, "By and by, 

The Lord will answer, in His way, 

Thy prayer in some bright future day. 



IN WAR TIMES. 15 



CHAPTKR III. 



To Storm clouds that will not retreat 

The blessed light must yield, 
And hearts will weep w^hen brave ones meet 

Their doom on battle field. 



The soldier in his rough retreat, 

Mid dangers thick and sore defeat, 

Is often made to think how long 

Before we'll sing a victor's song. 

How long before we may return, 

To home, sweet home, for which we yearn.' 

'Twas thus with Malcom while away, 

And fighting wnth the boys in gray 

Sometimes he thought, "How long before 

I shall return to father's door ? 

Or shall I ever, ever see. 

The home, and loved ones dear to me ^" 

Thus while he mused with moistened ej^ es. 

He heard the battle cry, arise ! 

"To arms ! to arms ! ! ye men of might, 

And stand ye ready for the fight. 

(For sure the mighty foe, so strong) 

They come ! they come ! ! they're marching on! 



16 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

And soon two armies, grand, sublime, 

Stand facing, each in battle line, 

And with their banners floating high, 

They sound aloud the battle cry. 

•'Stand firm, and well your weapons use, 

That we may not the victory lose !" 

Then long and loud the battle blast 

And shot and shell iiew thick and fast, 

While upward rose the battle smoke, 

As clouds above the tallest oak. 

Yet stood they firm, the tried and true. 

The boys in gray, and boys in blue ; 

For each with manly courage strong, 

Demand a note of praise in song, 

One with the Stars and Stripes unfurled, 

May boast of valor to the world; 

And surely those who dared to wave 

The Stars and Bars, were just as brave. 

While host on host with wildest cheer 

Charged back and forth with gun and spear. 

The clashing sword and roaring gun 

Told of the cost of victories won. 

Thus while they dashed, charged and wheeled 

On Shiloh's bloody battle field. 

Amid the mighty cannons' roar, 

Some brave ones fell to rise no more. 

'Twas thus amid the shot and shell 

That Malcom Gray, brave Malcom, fell. 



IX WAR TIMES. 17 

Alas! that one so true and brave 
Who fought, that he might help to save 
His country's honor^ and her weal, 
Should spill life's blood his faith to seal. 
But now he lies upon the ground, 
And blood is flowing from his wound. 
Soon he was borne from there away, 
As many were that dreadful day, 
And fell perhaps among the foe. 
'Twas sure his comrades did not know, 
Save that it firmly was believed, 
A fatal wound he had received. 



18 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 



CHAPTER IV. 

When gloomy clouds of sorrow rise, 
And when bright hope has fled 

From loving hearts, oh ! then in grief, 
The bitter tear is shed. 

It had been long since Una heard 

From Malcom Gray a single word. 

The daj's seemed lonely and so long 

She wishes, though it may be wrong, 

That time would hasten in its flight 

If onl}^ there would come some light, 

Some cheering word, some happy news. 

That would into her soul infuse 

New life, new hope, and dry the tear 

And calm the thought of anxious fear. 

The rumors of the bloody strife, 

And of the fearful loss of life. 

Flew thick and fast, flew far and near. 

And many hearts were filled with fear; 

But none, perhaps, felt more concern 

Or wished more anxiously to learn 

Of friends and loved ones, and their state 

Than Una did of Malcom's fate. 

She sat one evening in her room. 



IX WAR TIMES, 19 

And tried to drive away her gloom. 

And every dark foreboding cloud, 

That would her soul in darkness shroud, 

And let in hope, that blessed boone. 

That drives back night like sun at noon, 

When, with great haste, came dashing in 

The colored servant who had been 

To see what news the mails had brought 

From fields where battles had been fought. 

And when she threw a letter down, 

Said she, "Miss Una, I'll be bound 

Dat dar's some news from Malcom Gray, 

Your Malcom, who is far awajs 

And I hope from dat brave boy 

De news w411 fill your heart with joy." 

The letter quickly was unsealed 

To see what therein was revealed. 

But ah. so sad! so sad the news. 

Such, if we could, we would refuse; 

For now to Una was revealed 

The scenes of Shiloh's bloody field; 

She learned how Malcom there had bled 

And, now, she mourned for him as dead. 

(For since the day, that day he fell. 

Naught had been heard, nor none could tell 

How Malcom fared; for not a word 

His comrades from him e'er had heard.) 

To those who know the pangs of grief. 



20 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Without one hope to give relief, 

Know something of the keen despair, 

Which this fair maiden had to bear, 

And know how galhng to the lip 

The bitter cup she had to sip. 

The dreams of happy da5^s to come, 

Those days tbat would complete the sum 

Of earthly bliss, the crowning day, 

Must now forever pass away; 

The brightest hopes that fancy made. 

Must wither and forever fade. 

Oh! cruel stroke, a blow severe, 

That caused to flow the bitter tear 

Of sorrow, and in youthful bloom. 

A heart is sunk in deepest gloom. 

And, while we see the tears that flow, 

There none can tell, there none that know 

The depths of sorrow as it sweeps 

In fullness o'er the heart that weeps. 

But many weeks and months had flown, 

x^nd yet from Malcom naught was known, 

Save that he proved a hero true, 

Within the year of sixty-two. 

And fell, 'twas thought, to rise no more, 

And now 'tis eighteen sixty-four. 

But days go by. weeks come and go, 

And tears cannot forever flow. 

So Una thought, "It can't be harm, 



IN WAR TIMES. 21 

Although to me the brightest charm 

Of life is gone. I must take heart, 

In duties call should act my part." 

And though her fondest hopes were crushed, 

The music in he^ soul was hushed, 

Yet oft she met with friends to cheer. 

True friends who would her sorrows share. 

And there was one with whom she met, 

A Captain Bly, she'll not forget, 

For of those friends, the friends of youth, 

She met with none, to speak the truth. 

Who seemed more ready to comply 

With every wish than Captain Bly. 

He seemed to her as kind and true, 

As any one she ever knew. 

His manly form was tall and straight, 

His manners seemed both good and great. 

He had a brilliant, jet black eye, 

That sparkled neath his forehead high; 

A kind expression and a face 

Which would denote a noble race, 

And he wore most all the while 

A friendly, gentle, winning smile. 

Indeed, he seemed excelled b}- few. 

Although he woie the yankee blue. 

But one bright evening wdien the breeze 

Blew soft among the forest trees. 

And just before the sun had set, 



22 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

This noble youth and Una met; 
And then in accent.s low and sweet 
Said he; "I'm truly g-lad to meet — 
To meet with you this level}' eve. 
And may I trust that you'll believe — 
Believe me, for I wish to be 
A friend as true as steel to thee." 
Then, as the blushes crowned her cheek. 
He ventured once a.g^ain to speak 
In lower tones and trembling voice. 
Said he, "My dear, I would rejoice 
If friendship only wold ugive place. 
Or, if it should prove but the base 
Of love as tender and as strong 
As e'er was sung in poet's song; 
For, sure I've met with none more fair, 
I would, therefore, most gladlj^ share 
Your joys and sorrows all through life, 
If 3'ou would onh^ be my wife." 
'Twas thus in love's most tender strain^ 
He plead and hoped her heart to gain. 
She listened, blushed, and then replied: 
"Kind sir, I might become your bride. 
But did you know, I must be true. 
Discard not gray for A^ankee blue. 
Although perhaps I should confess 
That in my heart j^ou do possess 
A tender place; and yet 'tis true, 



IN WAR TIMES. 23 

You ask for more than I can do. 

And, while I'll ever cherish here, 

Within my heart, your memory dear, 

Admire you as an honest friend. 

Yet our relation there must end; 

But. since I've heard 3'our strong appeal, 

I would not from 5''ou dare conceal 

That there was one who sought to gain 

My fondest love, and did obtain 

M}^ heart and hand — I loved him well. 

On Shiloh's battle field he fell. 

Fell for that cause he thought was right 

And though that cause should sink in night 

He loved this South-land, loved me, too, 

And so to him I'll e'er be true. 

I know you'll find along life's way, 

On some delightful, happy day. 

Some maiden fair who'll love to be 

A life companion unto thee. 

So then, kind sir, do not lament 

Becaur.e I cannot now consent 

To give to you my hand and heart. 

Adieu, we must forever part." 

To him, this was the saddest rews, 

To find his offer thus refused. 

He bowed his head and heaved a sigh, 

Then took her hand to say good bye. 

And, as he looked her in the face. 



24 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Said he : "I trust that heaven's grace 

May crown your pathway all through life 

Although you will not be my wife/' 

Releasing then her trembling hand, 

He said, "I see that all I've planned, 

Of fondest hope and highest aim, 

I must relinquish every claim." 

Then as the day began to fade, 

As onward came the evening shade, 

The gallant Captain bid adieu 

To Una Grame, the maiden true. 

And swiftly sped along his way; 

But almost wished he'd worn the gray 

If, by that means, he now might claim 

The hand and heart of Una Grame. 

The maiden watched him cross the hill. 

Then lingered for a moment still, 

Until the sun was hid from view 

And gently fell the evening dew. 

Then, as the stars in beauty bright, 

The faithful sentinels of the night, 

Came from their hiding place on high, 

And domed and decked the bright blue sky 

And, as the day light swiftly fled, 

And since the l^st goodbye was said, 

Fair Una turned and walked away. 

Still true to him who wore the gray. 

And, when she reached the old yard gate, 



IN WAR TIMES. 25 

Thought she, " 'twas here I vowed to wait, 

Wait for my Ibver, true and tried. 

Till he should claim me for his bride. 

But oh! alas! a stroke severe, 

That separates from one so dear.^' 

Then in her heart she thought, slie mused, 

"The time will come there'll be good news. 

Perhaps, dear Malcom did survive 

That dreadful wound and still's alive, 

While I in sorrow bowed my head 

And mourned because I thought him dead. 

I would that he might yet come home, 

And then go out no more to roam." 

Such thoughts her mind would sometimes fill 

And cause her very heart to thrill 

With hope she dared not cherish there, 

A hope that struggled 'gainst despair. 

But when the curtains of the night, 

Had hid the golden beams of light, 

She then lay down to rest and sleep, 

And dream of days when she'd not weep. 



26 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTPIERN GIRL 



CHAPTICR V. 

When sorrows flow, till hope is low. 
And hearts sink dowm with care, 

'Tis then we plead for friends, indeed, 
Who will our sorrows share. 

In darkest sadness oft we sigh 

For just one ray of light, 
And when the storm-clouds break and fly. 
Then comes the rainbow bright. 

And sometimes, 'mid the darkening gloom, 

A ray of hope appears 
That cheers the heart. O! blessed boon, 

It drives away our fears. 

When Southern winds begin to blow 
And melt away the ice and snow, 
And birds their songs of beauty sing. 
Until they make the w^elkin ring; 
'Tis then we know that spring is near. 
The season that is held so dear. 
'Tis then the roses bud and bloom 
As fades away the winter's gloom, 
The forest trees are clothed anew, 
And blooming flowers of different l,ue 
Adorn the hillsides and the plain. 



IN WAR TIMES. 27 

As oft they drink the gentle rain. 
And when kind nature thus is seen, 
x\ll mantled in her robes of green, 
'Tis then a blinded eye that sees 
No charms in birds, or flowers, or trees. 
'Tis stupid heart, that never feels 
The richest charms that nature yields, 
For when thus clothed in robes of green. 
Xo heart conceived, or eye hath seen 
A si^ht more lovely, rich or new, 
Than nature then presents to viev/. 
But in the spring of sixty-five. 
When balmy breeze bid flowers revive. 
And while all nature thus was clad 
In beauty, many hearts were sad, 
For times grew hard, the foe possessed 
The country, and they brought distress, 
To many a pure and lovely home, 
Wherever they did chance to roam. 
And for the country's weal or woe, 
They cared but little how 'twould go; 
For they were not the tried and true, 
And sometimes wore the gray, then blue. 
And o'er the country far and wide, 
They brought a mighty sweeping tide 
Of grief, and sorrow, want and woe, 
That caused ten thousand tears to flow. 
The orphan's cry, the widow's moan, 



28 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Told how sweet peace from hearts had flown. 

And vsome there were amid the strife, 

Left dearest homes and fled for life. 

Among the number caused to flee 

And wander as a refugee 

Was Una's father, brave and true, 

Who with his wife and daughter too 

Forsook their home, away they fled 

To find a refuge then instead: 

Where they might stay till war should cease, 

And there' d again be blessed peace. 

Now Una's father (old man Grame) 

Of noble manhood, man of fame; 

Was thought by some, at least 'twas told, 

That he possessed vast sums of gold. 

So he was therefore caused to rosm, 

A refugee, far, far from home, 

And that he might some vantage gain 

Sometimes was forced to leave the plain. 

And seek in mountain heights secure, 

To find a refuge, safe and sure. 

And of those scenes, so weird and wild, 

(Where mountain peak, on peak are piled, 

And madly roars the rushing stream 

And one may hear the eagle's scream,) 

The poet loves to sing and write, 

While artist paint them with delight. 

'Tis there upon the mountain peak, 



IN WAR TIMES. 29 

That nature's voice is heard to speak, 

And tell of Him whose might^^ hand, 

Formed ocean, sea, and solid land. 

There one may gaze on rugged cliffs, 

That crown some lofty peak that lifts 

Its frowning head into the cloud, 

Where lightnings play, and thunders loud, 

Echo along the mountain side, 

While storm kings in their anger ride. 

There cataracts in fury dash, 

Down 'gainst the rocks their waters splash. 

And then far down, far down below, 

They form the silvery streams that flow. 

'Twas there amid such mountain heights. 

And rugged scenes^ and rugged sights. 

That some when by their foes pursued, 

Would oft their wily foes elude. 

'Twas there that Grame would sometimes flee, 

Though none perhaps more brave than he. 

But he was forced to watch, and learn 

When, he in safety might return. 

Once more to his old lovely home, 

And cease a refusfee to roam. 



30 UNA GRxVMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 



CHAPTER VI. 

Amid the darkest days of grief, 
When hope is almost gone, 

How sweet the joy that gives relief 
Then sighing turns to song. 

That day when flew the shot and shell, 

That dreadful day, when Malcom fell, 

Among the wounded, long he lay 

Before he could be borne away, 

At length the soldier, brave and true. 

Was caught by those who wore the blue; 

And so this hero, 'mong the gray. 

Was made a prisoner on that day. 

Yet friends he found among the foe. 

Who did the utmost kindness show. 

And when at length his wound was dressed, 

And he was placed where he might rest, 

And when to consciousness he came, 

He thought of home, and Una Grame. 

He talked of those he loved so dear 

But in his heart there rose a fear 

That he w^ould never, never more, 

Meet loved ones on this mundane shore. 

It seemed his days must shortly end, 



IN WAR TIMES. 31 

His soul to God must soon ascend, 

For he was sinking, sinking low, 

The sjanptoms did most plainly show. 

The nurse who kindl}^ dressed his wound 

Discovered in his daily round. 

That Malcom Gray grew worse and worse, 

Said he, "quite soon he'll need a hearse." 

At last the watchers by his bed, 

Were heard to whisper, "he is dead." 

'Tis true life seemed to ebb away, 

As fades the light at close of day. 

And soon he'll cross, e'en now we seem 

To see him reach cold Jordan's stream. 

His earthly pilgrimage is o'er, 

He soon will reach the other shore, 

That shore, from which none e'er return, 

And we shall know, but die to learn, 

How sad that one so loved as he, 

His friends on earth no more should see, 

No more his faithful Una meet, 

No more her cheering presence greet, 

Far. far from home, to sink and die, 

And leave loved ones to weep and sigh. 

But loving hearts in fervent prayer, 

Besought the Lord that He might spare 

Young Malcom Gray, and yet revive 

The suffering soldier and contrive 

To bring him back, to friends so dear, 



32 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

Who shed for him the bitter tear. 

Those prayers, on wings of faith and love 

Ascended to the throne above; 

And He whose promises are sure, 

Whose word our brightest hopes secure, 

In mercy heard the fervent prayer, 

And sent his blessings, rich and rare, 

On Malcom Gray and gave him breath, 

And saved him from the jaws of death. 

He touched once more life's hidden string, 

And tuned the broken harp to sing. 

He caused the soldier to arise 

And bade his wavering strength revive, 

And then he soon begins to think, 

"Some cup of pleasure yet I'll drink ; 

Perhaps I'll to my home return. 

The home for which my heart does yearn. 

Once more I'll see fair Una Grame, 

Who to my heart remains the same. 

As when we parted, long ago, 

She's just the same, I know, I know, 

Yes just the same dear girl as when 

We parted, just as dear as then." 

Thus while he thought of home and friends, 

And those whose true love never ends, 

His heart oft filled with tenderness, 

While visions of true happiness, 

Came to his mind, and pictured there, 



IN WAR TIMES. 33 

The scenes of home, so brio^ht and fair. 
He saw the room where sits his sire 
At night, by the bright blazing fire, 
There lay the Bible on the stand, 
Worn by the touch of father's hand. 
And there's the place where mother sits 
And in the winter evening knits 
The stockings for the little feet, 
Of darling ones so fair and sweet. 
His fancy sees them sitting around 
The old hearth stone, he hears the sound 
Of sweetest music as it floats, 
Wave after wave in sweetest notes. 
Dear sister sits and sings and plays, 
Just as she did in other days. 
Then there appeared another scene, 
Robed in a still more splendid sheen. 
The hour has come for evening prayer, 
And in that worship he would share, 
He seems to hear the songs they sing 
And shares the comforts which they bring; 
But now they sing their sweetest lays, 
And upward rise the songs of praise, 
Then bowing down in fervent prayer 
They asked God's mercy and His care. 
And he the bliss of pra3^er then felt 
As though he, too, had with them knelt. 
'Twas thus his thought would often roam 



31 UNA GPvAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

To childhood scenes and childhood's home, 

Where love once burned so bright and clear, 

Those loved ones now seemed doubly dear. 

'Twas while he thought of home and rest 

That truth and grace his heart impressed, 

And taught him that, if he would find 

The sweetest peace of heart and mind, 

That he must seek that peace from God 

And bow beneath his chastening rod. 

And when his failing strength revived, 

He saw the plan that grace contrived 

To save rebellious, sinful man; 

He saw and loved the wondrous plan. 

And when he found himself undone 

And sought for peace through Christ, the Son, 

And fully gave himself away 

To Christ his night was turned to day. 

And then he sung: "I'm now set free 

From sin, since Jesus died for me. 

When I was sinking, sinking down, 

He laid aside His glittering crown 

And came to earth and bled and died; 

But rose again, and death defied. 

Ascended high, at God's right hand, 

And, in that pure celestial land. 

He intercedes for sinners lost 

And saves them at His blessed cross. 

I now this wondrous love embrace, 



IN WAR TIMES. 35 

And sing of His redeeming grace. 
The prayer which now ascends the throne, 
I plead that I may reach my home, 
My earthly home, the place so sweet. 
Where I my loving friends may greet. 
And, when this earthly race is o'er, 
O, may I reach that heavenly shore, 
Where joy and friendship ne'er shall cease, 
But be forever blessed peace." 
But many, many weary days, 
And disappointments and delays. 
Before young Malcom Gray could start 
Back to his home with happy heart. 
But, oh! what pleasure filled his soul 
When, one bright morning, he was told 
He'd been paroled and might return 
To those for whom his heart did yearn. 



36 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 



CHAPTER VII. 

When hope has fled from weepinij" hearts, 
Well may that sad heart sigh, 

Then every lingering joy departs 
And sweetest pleasures die. 

But when bright hope again is found, 

With those it left so sad, 
Then richer streams of joy abound, 

And hearts seem doubly glad. 

A few brief weeks had fled and gone, 

And yet, to Una, it seemed long 

Since last she saw the dear old home, 

Where peace and love once held tht, throne. 

That home to Una's heart was dear. 

And, though with some degree of fear, 

Said she: "I will return and see 

The old homestead, so dear to me, 

The grand old place where first the light 

Shone on my happy childhood bright.'^ 

But, e'er the time had come to start 

Back to the place dear to her heart, 

Good news, good news, had cheered her soul. 

Till, like the silvery streams that roll 

By hill and dale and meadows wide, 



IN WAR TIMES. 37 

With their increasing* sweeping- tide. 

So, through her heart flowed streams of peace, 

That made her tears of sorrow cease. 

That news had bid her hopes revive, 

She'd heard that Malcom was alive, 

And, now, was in the neighborhood 

Near where her father's mansion stood. 

From that dark day he fought and fell 

He'd suffered much, but now was well. 

And under the afflicting hand, 

While far from home, and native land. 

The prayers which Una oft had prayed, 

The invocation of that maid. 

Was heard in heaven's high court above, 

And answered by the God of love. 

Though He did not just then disclose, 

(And who is it, that surely knows, 

The ways of Him who rules above 

And often smites in perfect love) 

That throngh affliction though severe 

He'd bowed in love her prayer to hear. 

But now she saw, 'twas all made plain, 

God often turns our loss to gain; 

And through affliction Malcom found, 

The grace of God did oft abound, 

And by it he was Vjrought to see 

The need of Christ who set him free 

From all his sins and bade him cease 



38 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL, 

To mourn, but rest, in perfect peace. 
This news had cheered fair Una's heart, 
More anxious now was she to start 
To see the home, the dear old home, 
And places where she used to roam 
For now she thought, perhaps 1*11 meet 
With him I once thought ne'er to greet. 
So when well mounted for a ride, 
She dashed along without a guide 
Toward the home she loved so well, 
With hope so bright that none could tell, 
How sweet the joy that crowned that day, 
And chased the lingering gloom away. 
Her heart beat fast and faster still, 
Her inmost soul was made to thrill, 
That she once more should see the place, 
Where she at first began life's race. 
So on she went 'til sun was low, 
The lengthening shades began to show. 
Another day was almost gone, 
Yet Una urged her steed along. 
The objects now which met her eye 
Along the way as she passed by. 
Were such to her as were not new. 
She knew them as they came in view 
For every field and every hill 
And every brook and running rill. 
To which she once had bid adieu 



IN WAR TIMES. 

Seemed now to say, "we welcome you." 

She gazed upon them with delight, 

At length a school house came in sight — 

The old school house where she once played, 

A thoughtless, happy little maid; 

Where once the bare-foot girls and boys 

Had tasted childhood's sweetest joys. 

She gazed upon the old play-ground 

Where playing tap-hand, round and round 

They'd chased each other, in their glee, 

As happy as they well could be. 

Delightful thoughts now filled her breast 

And she decided there to rest. 

And so dismounting from her steed. 

She turned him loose to let him feed 

Upon the grass and weeds which grew 

In rich abundance just in view. 

She had not been there very long 

Till she was humming o'er a song, 

And thinking of the old school days 

And happy sports and childish plays, 

When she was startled by a noise 

Which then disturbed her tranquil joys. 

She listened and she heard the tramp 

Of soldiers, coming from their camp. 

Oh! horrid thought, "they're coming here, 

And they will do me hurt I fear." 

"Ah! here's our prize," rang forth a voice. 



40 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL. 

"She'll do or die ; we'll give her choice. 

Surrender now, 3^ou little Reb, 

We know 3^our father who has fled — 

Fled from these parts, a refugee 

To save his gold, his life and thee. 

But now those treasures, rich and rare, 

Those treasures now we'll share! we'll share!' 

A prisoner caught, a prisoner bound, 

Pair Una, to her sorrow, found 

That she in meekness must obey. 

And now they vStart along the way 

That leads toward the old homestead, 

From which her father once had fled. 

And when they reached the old birth place, 

With tear dimmed e3^es and pallid face, 

The poor girl pleaded all in vain, 

No mercy could she now obtain. 

But she was ordered to dismount 

And show the place so they might count 

Her father's gold and then divide 

The treasure 'mongst themselves with pride. 

Then one more hardened, vile and base, 

With intern eye, looked her in the face, 

A sterner voice said, "Now decide." 

But she with fear at once replied, 

"I know not what, sir, you demand, 

How then obe}^ your stern command. 

I only sought my home to see, 



IN WAR TIMES. 41 

From which my father had to flee, 
But never once did I believe, 
Nor in my heart did I conceive 
That I a prisoner should be, 
What dost thou mean, why trouble me?" 
'^Decide," said he, "that you'll reveal 
The place your father does conceal 
His bags of gold; so now comply 
With this command or else you'll die!" 
Fair Una, trembling like a leaf, 
Plead in vain for some relief; 
And, in her anguish cried, "I know 
Not where, or else I'd gladly show 
Those treasures rich and rare, and old. 
You might possess those bags of gold, 
If only you would set me free. 
That I might have sweet liberty." 
Before her captors thus she stood 
And plead her cause as best she could. 
Her trembling lips, her tear-dimmed eye. 
Her heaving breast, her deep'ning sigh, 
Could they've resisted that appeal 
Had not their hearts been hard as steel. 
But. still they held their prisoner fast, 
Until the evening shades were cast 
Upon the scene; the sun's gone down, 
And darkness reigns from town to town, 
But still their prisoner fast they held 



42 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

And still demanded she must tell 

The place her father kept his gold. 

Said they, "We have been often told 

You know the place, and thou dost lie! 

So, tell the truth, or thou shalt die!" 

But in her heart, she knew full well, 

She did not know and could not tell 

The place her father's gold was hid; 

So, could not do as she was bid, 

Although that treasure might have power 

To save her from this dreadful hour. 

And by its magic power might save 

And keep her from the gloomy grave. 

Now, long before the evening sun 

Had run his race or night begun, 

Brave Malcom Gray the truth had learned; 

Down in his heart that truth had burned, 

That Una Grame was in the hand 

Of some rough bandit soldier band. 

So, under cover of the night, 

By twinkling of the dim star-Hght, 

He followed on until he came. 

Came near the mansion of old Grame, 

And 'neath a window sill he stood 

And peering in as best he could. 

He S2W their actions, heard one cry, 

"That treasure show or else you'll die," 

He heard the threats, heard Una plead 



IN WAR TIMES. 43 

For merc}', which they did not heed. 

And saw her trembhng, saw her need. 

He would have dared to enter in 

And fought if there'd been hope to win, 

But well he knew it was not best, 

To boldly try then to arrest 

The intent of this ruthless band, 

And thwart the purpose they had planned. 

So near the window, creeping near 

The window, where she stood in fear, 

He whispered so that he was known, 

To none, but Una Grame alone. 

He sought this means to let her know 

She might escape her cruel foe, 

If she would seek her chance to flee, 

She might again have liberty. 

For, in the darkness of the night, 

He would assist her in her flight. 

But now her captors grew more rude 

And, in a stern commanding mood. 

Demanded that she quickly show 

The treasure, or receive the blow 

That soon would end her earthly race — 

Five minutes long, her day of grace. 

How swift the moments stem to fly, 

Five minutes passing, passing by. 

The time is up, five minutes, fled — 

But still she with her captors plead. 



44 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

''Oh! spare my life, hold back the blow, 
And do not cause my blood to flow !" 
'Twas thus she plead that mercy's wing 
Might be outstretched and o'er her fling 
Some blessed charm or friendly aid, 
Before the threatened stroke he made. 
Behold her, in her youthful bloom, 
Sweet as the rose with rich perfume, 
Awaiting but a dreaded doom, 
And robed in loveliness as fair, 
As ever mortals hope to share. 
Then hear her make her last appeal, 
Would hearts of stone refuse to feel ? 
O! could the wretches, filled with guile, 
Or could the vilest of the vile. 
With greed for gold or rich estate, , 
Or even devils filled with hate. 
Decide this fair one's blood to spill 
And hell's dark purposes fulfill ? 
Yes, men may harden in their sin, 
And in its depths may enter in. 
And bid the voice of conscience hush. 
And then commit without a blush, 
The blackest crimes to history known, 
And laugh to hear their victim's groan. 
So justice, mercy, love and truth, 
And all the matchless charms of youth— 
With all her pleadings could not gain 



IN WAR TIMES. 45 

A single hope, 'twas all in vain. 

The time is up, five minutes fled, 

With captors she no longer plead, 

But, like fair Jephthah's daughter now, 

The day he paid that dreadful vow, 

A trembling victim there she stands, 

With upturned eye, and clasping hands, 

And pleading with her Father, God, 

To turn away this awful rod. 

Then one who seemed most rude and rough, 

Quoth he, ''we've been here long enough." 

And, when he spoke thus to the maid. 

He then drew forth a glittering blade 

And swung o'er her defenceless head 

The keen-edged weapon, as he said, 

* 'Beneath quick blows thy life shall sink, 

Now this broad sword thy blood shall drink." 

She wheeled about, as if to go. 

That she might now the treasure show, 

But, 'twas an exit that she sought. 

And with one bound as quick as thought, 

Leaped into darkness of the night, 

Then hastened on in rapid flight. 

And soon she met with Malcom Gray, 

They mount their steeds and then away 

O'er distant hills with rapid speed. 

Dash! dash! along the wiry steed. 

But soon they found themselves pursued, 



46 UXA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL, 

Yet saw, their foes they might elude, 

For in the darkness of the night, 

Perchance would soon be out of sight. 

So pressing onward, on they flew, 

But swiftly did their foes pursue. 

And like blood hounds in eager chase, 

They gained upon them in the race. 

The clattering hoof of panting steed 

Told of the swiftness of their speed. 

Said Malcom to fair Una Granie, 

''Apply the whip with might and main, 

Keep close, my darling, by m}^ side-, 

We must, we shall, our foes outride/' 

So dashing on o'er hill and plain 

As fast as any flying train. 

They were delighted when they found 

That they were surely gaining ground. 

Still swiftly o'er the hill and dale, 

They glide along, they must not fail, 

And so thej' urge their horses on. 

Until their strength was almost gone 

At length they stopped, when well they knew, 

Their foes no longer did pursue, 

And rested then their panting steeds 

Which had performed such noble deeds. 

They'd won the race and felt quite sure, 

From dreaded foes they were secure. 

They'd reached a place of safe retreat 



IN WAR TIMES. 47 

And foiled their enemies complete 

And, since their foes were thus defied, 

They there in safety might abide, 

Until the cruel war should cea^e, 

And there'd again be blessed peace. 

vSo, with their friends they then remained 

Till peace was once again regained; 

And, when the desperate strife had ceased 

And there arose the star of peace, 

'Twas then disbanded soldiers pressed 

To reach their homes and there caress 

Their loved ones whom they had not seen 

Till weeks ar d months had rolled between 

The time they gave their parting kiss, 

That parting day, that day and this. 

But when they stacked their clashing arms. 

And drums no more beat dread alarms, 

When banners furled, and soldiers found 

Themselves discharged and homeward bound. 

When booming cannon ceased to roar 

And all the bloody strife was o'er, 

When gathering storm clouds seemed to rift, 

And darkest gloom began to lift, 

When hope revived and spread its light 

And drove away the gloom of night, 

Then Malcom Gray and Una Grame 

To hymen's altar proudly came. 

' Twas there they clasped each others hands 



AUG -5 1902 



48 UNA GRAMES, A SOUTHERN GIRL 

And took that vow that ever stands; 
'Twas there they pledged to each their all, 
Together they shall rise or fall. 
And now there's music in their life, 
For Una Grame is Malcom's wife, 
And, like a harp well tuned and strung, 
There's no discord for they are one. 



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